In a significant step towards nurturing innovation in Kenya, Riara University has commenced construction of its new satellite campus at Konza Technopolis. The groundbreaking ceremony marks the beginning of a project poised to redefine higher education in the region.
Riara University’s Vice Chancellor, Prof. Robert Gateru, expressed his enthusiasm for the project, stating, “The Riara University-Konza Technopolis Campus is poised to accelerate the next phase of our growth and development in line with our motto of nurturing innovators.” This new campus, which is set to be the university’s second and main campus, is a testament to Riara’s commitment to fostering a culture of innovation and excellence.
The project, with an estimated cost of Ksh20 billion, will be developed in three phases. Phase I is expected to be completed by March 2025. The campus will offer unique and specialized programs in science, technology, innovation, and entrepreneurship, positioning itself as a leading institution for aspiring innovators.
Kenya’s Chief of Staff and Head of Public Service, Felix Koskei, highlighted the importance of private sector involvement in the development of Konza Technopolis. “We are happy to see the private sector now come in and start to develop their projects,” he remarked, noting the government’s role in preparing the site with necessary infrastructure. Over 140 investors have already been onboarded to support various initiatives within Konza, reflecting a robust public-private partnership aimed at driving economic growth.
John Paul Okwiri, CEO of Konza, echoed these sentiments, stating, “We are excited to have Riara University start their construction project, a statement to the fact that we are ready for investors. The campus is an addition to the existing two institutions of higher learning, Kenya Advanced Institute of Technology and Science (Ke-AIST) and the Open University of Kenya (OUK).”
The development of Riara University’s new campus at Konza is not just a milestone for the university but also a significant boost for the Konza Technopolis project, often dubbed the “Silicon Savannah.” This initiative aims to create a hub for technology and innovation, drawing parallels with Silicon Valley in California.
Isaac Awuondo, Chairman of the Riara University Council, emphasized the strategic vision behind this initiative. “We are repositioning ourselves to become the innovation and startup university of Africa, offering unique and specialized programs in science technology, innovation, and entrepreneurship in line with the model of Stanford University at Silicon Valley in California,” Awuondo said.
Riara University, part of the Riara Group of Schools founded in 1974 by Daniel and Eddah Gachukia, has a long-standing reputation for academic excellence. The new campus at Konza is set to build on this legacy, providing students with state-of-the-art facilities and a conducive environment for learning and innovation.
